Les Anses-d’Arlet, a charming fishing village on Martinique’s southern coast, is known for its picture-perfect blend of Caribbean warmth and local tradition. Its centerpiece is a white-sand beach backed by brightly painted houses and the landmark Church of St. Henry, whose steeple aligns beautifully with the sea when viewed from the pier. The town feels intimate and authentic, a place where fishermen mend their nets beside seaside cafés serving Creole specialties.
The bay itself is calm and crystalline, ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Just a short swim from shore, colorful coral reefs and schools of tropical fish make the waters a favorite among families and divers alike. On quieter mornings, you might even spot sea turtles gliding gracefully near the rocks, a reminder of the area’s thriving marine life.
What sets Les Anses-d’Arlet apart is its atmosphere: a laid-back rhythm shaped by both its seafaring history and its dedication to simple pleasures. Visitors linger on the promenade at sunset, sharing rum punch as the village glows in golden light. Unlike busier resort towns, it offers an unhurried charm where life flows at the pace of the tide, making it one of Martinique’s most beloved seaside escapes.